‘We're still living in fear’ - Tanzanians react as govt eases restrictions after election unrest: Video
Residents of Arusha in northern Tanzania have resumed work following days of violent unrest linked to the October 29 presidential election that saw President Samia Suluhu Hassan claim a landslide victory.
However, locals admitted fear and uncertainty still linger in the wake of the turmoil.
“After hearing the government’s announcement that we could resume work today, we thanked God that we’re back to our jobs, even though things aren’t quite the same yet," said Emmanuel Adenia, a motorcycle taxi driver. "People are still a bit fearful here and there, but it’s not too bad because we’ve been sitting at home for nearly a week without work,” he told Viory.
“Customers are still a bit fearful, coming one by one, but we are satisfied because that’s just the reality of things right now," said Ester Joel Shangarai, a local vegetable seller.
The government lifted curfews and partially restored internet access this week, easing restrictions imposed during a period of nationwide shutdown. The unrest erupted following the announcement by Tanzania’s electoral commission that President Samia had secured 98 percent of the vote, a result widely rejected by opposition groups as fraudulent.
Despite a heavy security presence, Samia was sworn in for a second term on Monday. Opposition leaders claim that more than 800 people have died in clashes related to the election.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
